Hundreds of former pupils at a Hitchin school returned to the classroom for a special reunion at the weekend.

The Comet: Wilshere Dacre Junior Academy youngsters performing in a choir at the reunion.Wilshere Dacre Junior Academy youngsters performing in a choir at the reunion. (Image: Archant)

Staff at Wilshere Dacre Junior Academy hosted the open day on Saturday as they edge closer to raising the money they need to renovate the school’s iconic clock tower.

Around 300 people turned out for the occasion and were able to tour the Fishponds Road school and enjoy cream tea, as well as look at memorabilia and old photos.

A limited edition of the I Love Hitchin bag also attracted attention and, along with a small entry fee and funds raised from refreshments, helped the school raise about £2,000 for the appeal.

“It was an incredible day,” said headteacher Sarah Smith.

The Comet: Wilshere Dacre Junior Academy youngsters performing in a choir at the reunion.Wilshere Dacre Junior Academy youngsters performing in a choir at the reunion. (Image: Archant)

“We had 95-year-old Gladys Howard who was at the school when it opened and brought in old photos and her first school report, through to people in their teens who had not long left.

“People came from all over the country, as well as Hitchin, and I have to say some just came for the limited edition of the I Love Hitchin bag!”

The bags are still on sale as the school edges closer to its £7,000 fundraising target for the clock tower.

Visit www.hitchinpowa.co.uk to get yours and tweet your pictures with the bag to @HitchinBag.